Teamsters Support Steelworkers Trade Case Against Illegal Activities By China

News provided by

International Brotherhood of Teamsters

Sep 09, 2010, 03:36 ET

USW Case Exposes Violations of Trade Law by China in Effort to Dominate Alternative and Renewable Energy Industry

WASHINGTON, Sept. 9 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- The Teamsters today announced their support of the United Steelworkers' case against China for its illegal support of alternative and renewable energy. The steelworkers are challenging China's illegal and predatory practices because they undermine U.S. jobs and U.S. manufacturing.

(Logo: http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20100127/IBTLOGO)

(Logo: http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20100127/IBTLOGO)

The 5,800-page petition was filed with the United States Trade Representative under Section 301 of the Trade Act. It identifies China's illegal activities to dominate the green energy sector, including hundreds of billions of dollars of subsidies, performance requirements and preferential practices.

"We cannot stand by and allow China to manipulate the system at the expense of millions of Americans who depend on the development of our green sector for jobs and economic recovery," said James P. Hoffa, Teamsters General President. "We must act now if we are to maintain our nation's status as a key player in the alternative and renewable energy sector."

The Obama Administration has 45 days to accept the United Steelworkers' petition for further action.

"China must be held accountable for its illegal practices," Hoffa said. "It's time the Chinese play by the same rules as the rest of the world. I have no doubt that on an even playing field, American ingenuity and our superior workforce will allow us to lead the world in the development of green industries."

Founded in 1903, the International Brotherhood of Teamsters represents 1.4 million hardworking men and women in the United States, Canada and Puerto Rico.

SOURCE International Brotherhood of Teamsters